It happens more often than you’d think.
A customer walks through the gallery doors, takes a moment to view the space, and says: “I’m looking for something in red.”
Not blue, not green, red.
At Kina Artspace, we’ve come to know this moment well. The quiet confidence of someone who knows what they want... or perhaps just what they need.
But what is it about red? Why does this colour speak so strongly?
Red is bold. Red is energy. Red is life.
It’s the colour of the berries of Nīkau palms and Pōhutukawa blooms, rich Central Otago wines and warming embers. It carries passion, confidence, and heat but also love, courage, and grounding strength.
Often, when someone asks for red, there’s an emotion behind it. They’re wanting to make a statement. Add warmth to a cool space. Bring vibrancy to a quiet corner. Or give a gift that carries meaning and impact.
When buying for others, red is a classic gesture, timeless and full of heart.
For lovers: red speaks of deep affection and lasting connection.
For friends or whānau: it’s a colour of vitality, strength, and joy.
For new homes: red adds a grounding richness that makes a space feel alive.
Red also reads as intentional. It’s not a default colour, it’s chosen with purpose.
Red as a Design element
Red anchors a space. It adds visual weight and instantly draws the eye. In modern homes, it’s a way to break up neutrals. In more eclectic interiors, it can act as a bridge between contrasting palettes.
We often see customers selecting red items to:
Add warmth to minimalist rooms
Complement earthy tones and natural materials
Brighten up bathrooms or kitchens
Echo the tones of brick, timber, or textiles already in the home
Sometimes, the person asking for red isn’t shopping for someone else. They’re buying for themselves.
A treat.
A reset.
A way to say, “I’m here.”
Red invites you to take up space and in that way, it’s not just a colour, it’s an attitude.
So if you find yourself drawn to red, you’re not alone.
We see it all the time, that magnetic pull to something bold, beautiful, and full of life. Whether it’s a tiny pop of crimson on a ceramic cup or a glowing glass sculpture that commands attention, red always has a place at Kina.
Come in and explore our collection of red-hued treasures... we’ll help you find just the right one.
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news! McGlashen Pottery is back in action! Under the care of passionate new owners, Coral and Josh. This beloved + iconic ceramics studio is set to continue its legacy with fresh energy and enthusiasm.
Leah Firth crafts captivating artisan jewellery, featuring vibrant man-made sapphires in every shade of the rainbow. Each playful, one-of-a-kind piece is set in fluid, organically shaped silver, turning gemstones into wearable art. We caught up with Leah to gain more insight into her artistic process of making.
It happens more often than you’d think. A customer walks through the gallery doors, takes a moment to breathe in the space, and says: “I’m looking for something… in red.” Not blue, not green — red.
Emma Turner creates delightfully quirky pottery in her garden studio, mixing form, colour, and a whole lot of character. We had a chat with Emma to find out what sparks her creativity, what she’s into, and how it all comes together in her fabulously fun creations!
